Hunters odds better in small game season

It’s no secret that most Michigan hunters’ seasons begin and end with deer season, but there is a world of winter hunting opportunities waiting to be tapped by area outdoorsmen.

By MARK SPENCLEYmark@cheboygantribune.com

It’s no secret that most Michigan hunters’ seasons begin and end with deer season, but there is a world of winter hunting opportunities waiting to be tapped by area outdoorsmen.Although small game hunting always has been synonymous with early fall, the seasons for two of hunters’ favorite small game critters extend well into late winter.Squirrel season runs until March 2 and rabbit season runs through March 31, giving hunters a reason to head for the woods. Abundant game animals and far fewer hunters than were in the woods for deer season will greet these winter small game hunters.The number of hunters that pursue small game is tiny compared to those that hunt deer, according to Russ Mason, Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division director.“In excess of 90 percent of hunters in Michigan only hunt deer,” Mason said. That percentage has grown dramatically in recent years. In a little more than a decade, Michigan small game hunting license sales have fallen by roughly 50 percent. Lots of animals and few hunters add up to great odds for hunters planning a winter small game hunt or two.High odds of success make this an ideal hunt for up and coming hunters. This is especially true for young hunters who got skunked during deer season. Small game hunting is a great way to reinvigorate their hunting passion.“There is usually a lot of action and that interests kids,” Mason added. “It’s a lot easier and a lot more fun to take kids on small game hunt than it is a deer hunt.”Before hunters head to the woods to ambush a few squirrels or rabbits, they should be sure they’re carrying the right gear.Almost everyone has the right gear for small game hunting. A .22 long rifle or any smaller gauge shotgun or archery equipment. Blaze orange always is required.